In a world where gender equality and women's empowerment are more crucial than ever, the role of open government in shaping a more inclusive society cannot be overstated. For Assistant Secretary Ester Aldana of the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), open government represents a commitment to positive change, especially in uplifting women’s roles in public service.  Assistant Secretary Aldana shared her insights on how open government principles shape her work and the broader impact it has on nation-building. Here’s a closer look at her perspective on the transformative power of transparency, accountability, and participation in government.  What Open Government Means to Assistant Secretary Ester Aldana  For Assistant Secretary Aldana, open government is more than just a set of policies; it is a powerful tool for ensuring that women are equally represented and actively engaged in the public policy arena. She believes that open government...

In the fight for a more sustainable and resilient future, women are no longer just part of the conversation in governance and climate action—they are leading it. Ms. Danica Marie F. Supnet, Director for Climate Policy at the Institute for Climate and Sustainable Cities (ICSC), is proof that inclusive leadership is the key to stronger policies and more sustainable solutions. For Ms. Supnet, open government is not just about transparency—it is about co-creation and ensuring that initiatives are anchored on shared expertise. "Open government means the co-creation of initiatives anchored on shared expertise, which fosters the importance of ownership," she shares. By collaborating closely with local governments, people’s organizations, the academe, and the youth, she and her team strive to ensure that climate initiatives are inclusive, community-driven, and sustainable. She shared that through this approach they have successfully co-developed a local climate action strategy that...

In an era where democratic governance is constantly being tested, open government emerges as a powerful force for transparency, accountability, and civic engagement. For Atty. Rona Caritos, open government is a commitment to fostering dialogue and collaboration between government institutions and the people they serve. It ensures that policies and programs remain responsive to the needs and realities of communities, making governance more inclusive and impactful. One of the most significant initiatives that Atty. Caritos and her organization, the Legal Network for Truthful Elections (LENTE), have undertaken is the expansion of the Commission on Elections’ Committee on Kontra Bigay. This initiative seeks to address the abuse of state resources during elections, particularly the politicization of government social welfare programs. By advocating for stricter regulations and oversight, LENTE is helping to safeguard electoral integrity and prevent the misuse of public funds for...

  Open government is more than a governance framework; it is a movement that champions transparency, participation, and accountability. In the judiciary, these principles are crucial in fostering trust and ensuring justice is not just served but seen to be served. Associate Justice Maria Filomena D. Singh embodies this commitment, advocating for judicial reforms that prioritize inclusivity and gender responsiveness. Her journey and initiatives offer invaluable insights into the role of women in shaping a more open and just society. For Justice Singh, open government is the bridge between institutions and the people they serve. It is a commitment that ensures laws and policies are not mere pronouncements but living instruments shaped by and for the citizenry. The judiciary plays a vital role in upholding these principles, fostering public confidence and empowering citizens to actively engage in governance. A significant contribution of Justice Singh to the judiciary is her...

  In the pursuit of open government, transparency, accountability, and citizen participation are fundamental principles that drive change. Dr. Annie Enriquez Geron, a stalwart advocate for good governance and anti-corruption, exemplifies the power of collective action in shaping policies that serve the public interest. Her leadership through the Public Services Labor Independent Confederation (PSLINK) demonstrates how organized efforts can dismantle corrupt systems and create meaningful reforms. More importantly, her journey underscores the crucial role of women in governance, not just as participants but as transformative leaders. For Dr. Enriquez-Geron, open government is not just a theoretical concept but a working model rooted in ethical governance. It requires strong public institutions that adhere to clear mandates, uphold transparency, and ensure accountability. More than eliminating corruption, it involves securing sustainable funding for essential services, fostering...